In order to clarify the effects of nonmetallic inclusion contents insteels (SM45C & SCM440) on the tool life, cutting experiment was performed under various cutting conditions. Tool life, cutting force, roughness of machined surface and cutting mechanism are examined on these two kinds of steel. The following conclusions were obtained from the analysis (1) Cutting force of the steels was not affected by chemical component and nonmetallic inclusion. (2) If the rate of amount, Ca/S has a value grater than about 0.2 and addition of less amount of Al, Mn, tool wear of tips decreasesinturning. (3) It is also proved that higher contents of nonmetallic inclusion improve roughness of the surface. (4) Less amount of Ca, higher amount of S, Mn and Al improve the chip breakability.